Colds are the worst! Some just seem to linger and linger. And the last thing you want to do when you are sick is to leave your house to get cold medicine; you pretty much just want to stay home and sleep. Luckily, these common household items may help you to get rid of your cold faster.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is a natural antibiotic, and can reduce inflammation caused by colds. As an added benefit it is also rich in spermidine, a compound which could help stave off cancer, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. Be careful though; you shouldn’t eat this if you are allergic to penicillin.
Oil
This seems strange, but some people swear oil pulling helps to alleviate your cold. What is oil pulling? The theory goes that microorganisms stick to oil, so swishing oil in your mouth pulls germs from your mouth. Coconut oil or olive oil seem to be the common oils used, mainly because they aren’t so gross. Be sure to spit; you are not supposed to drink it.
Honey/Lemon/warm water
This is a classic combination. Honey has antibacterial properties, and lemon juice is thought to help eliminate toxins. Mix these two with warm water, and you can go a long ways towards keeping hydrated throughout the day. Drinking this combo in the morning, even when you are not sick, is also a great way to lose weight.
Water
In all forms. Obviously drinking plenty of warm fluids is important. But taking hot steamy baths or showers help too. The steam can moisten your nasal passages to help you breathe better, and also relax you. You can also use a humidifier; some people add peppermint oil or eucalyptus.
Lots of Pillows and Rest
Rest is really the best thing for a cold. Your body is fighting valiantly to win the battle against the invading bacteria or virus, and needs all the rest it can get to be successful. But it can be tough to sleep when your nose is congested and it is hard to breathe. Propping up your head with pillows can allow you to breathe better, and to get the healing rest you so badly need.
You probably have all of these household items at home. Maybe they can help you to alleviate your cold symptoms and speed recovery.
